Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 31, 2010
July 30, 2010
GAUGUIN EXHIBITION: MAKER OF MYTH at TATE MODERN
Some of the most important of Paul Gauguin’s greatest paintings will be on exhibition at LONDON’S TATE MODERN.
GAUGUIN:MAKER OF MYTH displays more than 100 works by the influential late-19th century artist from worldwide public and private collections.
THE EXHIBITION delves into the artist’s unique storytelling style which has made him one of modern art’s greats. Alongside paintings, visitors will also see more of Gauguin’s lesser-known work in journalism, ceramics, and carvings.
DATES: 30 September 2010 to 16 January 2011
Times: Monday-thursday, Sunday 10:00 AM -6:00 PM Friday, Saturday 10:00 AM – 10 PM
This is a major attraction for me, and I hope others will be enjoying this exhibition.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 29, 2010
THE STATE COACH BRITANNIA — The Royal Mews
When visitors finish their tour through the STATE APARTMENTS at Buckingham Palace, they usually visit the QUEEN’S GALLERY where the spectacular VICTORIA AND ALBERT EXHIBITION is taking place. After these two visits, it is easy to suffer from visual exhaustion. But, let me make a suggestion: GO ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE QUEEN’S GALLERY AND HAVE A PLATE OF PASTA AND THEN RETURN TO THE PALACE TO VISIT THE ROYAL MEWS. At the ROYAL MEWS, a visitor will see fabulous carriages–including the “coronation carriage”– as well as the Queen’s fabulous fleet of cars. It is not a long visit, but the carriages in the ROYAL MEWS are absolutely exquisite. To encourage you, I am going to blog about the State landau–THE BRITANNIA. It is an amazing carriage.
The carriage called THE BRITANNIA was designed and built in Sydney, Australia, by Jim Frecklington at a cost of 620,000 pounds. It is the only carriage built for the Royal Family since Edward VII ordered the STATE LANDAU in 1910. THE BRITANNIA was a gift for the Queen from Australia, and the designers claim that the coach has more gold than any other vehicle made in Britain for almost 200 years. It is certainly intersting that the BRITANNIA was presented to the Queen by a Republican Prime Minister who wanted a referendum on the monarchy.
The designer and builder Jim Freklington learned his trade working in the ROYAL MEWS in Lonon.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
BIKE TOURS THROUGH LONDON BECOMING POPULAR AND SUCCESSFUL
My son Thomas Moore Jr. just returned from London. He rode his bike the entire trip and had a fabulous experience. He felt that I should publish these reviews from other bike tour participants in hopes that it will SPREAD THE WORD. What a fun activity for a family going to London! The family will never forget London and his bike tour. Enjoy the comments.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
THE FALSE TEETH THAT HELPED WIN WORLD WAR II – Churchill
I am leaving for London shortly–anxious to track down some very exciting information for my blog. The suitcase is sitting here and eager to get on the road; the bag is like a well-trained horse and knows where it is going and what is to happen. This early morning this article came to me which I knew I had to post. It made me smile from ear to ear. I will be writing about many new restaurants and new visit ideas, so I felt comfortable about publishing this amazing/amusing story as it came to me. I hope you enjoy it; I certainly did.
By the way, a client of our company is trying to purchase a clip of Winston Churchill’s signature. He says he can’t afford a document, but he could afford a signature. Can anyone help him ou?. I know a cashmere dealer on Piccadilly who collects “British” signatures. I will certainly give him a visit, but if any of my readers can help in this search, I would appreciate it. I have sent his request on to several London friends who might also be able to guide him in his search. I will let you know. IN SEARCH OF CHURCHILL. A very worthy subject!
Enjoy the article.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 28, 2010
THE SALUSBURY: YOUTH, BEAUTY, ITALIAN, AND QUEENS PARK
I suppose most of my readers are tourists who come to London for shorter visits. So, the events and restaurants I usually highlight are absolutely central. THE SALUSBURY is an exception. I have had two readers email me about this restaurant and its really good food. So,when this article from LONDON EATER came to me, I decided that I would post the article in full–particularly since I do not know THE SALUSBURY. But, I liked the write-up, and I didn’t want to leave my readers in the dark. I will be in London August/September–soon on my way–and I am going to this hip place for my first meal. So, if there are those eating here earlier, keep us post. Nice.
The Salusbury is the obvious hip hang out junction, where the beautiful, the youthful, carefree inhabitants of this rapidly gentrified part of NW6 flaunt their hide. It is hardly ever empty, and undoubtedly the most happening joint in and around Queen’s Park. On the weekends, it’s chock-a-blocklike can of sardines, and on weekdays it remains jubilantly full. It has a healthy reputation, and is a place which I have been wanting to write about for months now. Just before summer hit us, The Salusbury shut it doors for a few weeks for a minor facelift and now the pub and its adjoining dining room look ever more dapper than before. I’m very certain to have spotted Cillian Murphy moping around Salusbury road once.
Contrary to the trend of Brit-themed pubs, The Salusbury features an Italian inspired menu instead, so you won’t see scotch eggs, curry or burgers on the menu and bread is served with olive oil, cracked black pepper and sea salt instead of butter. Don’t bother with their official website either, the menu has been reworked ever so slightly since their refurbishment, and has now been expanded to include funkier selections include a burrata salad; pecorino with truffle oil; ravioli and pasta which now are claimed to be made in house. And according to the waiter, he told me the chef had decided to ‘delve deeper’ with the reboot.
Yes… from my tone you have probably sussed that I’m an occasional regular (oxymoron no?) at this pub, and have been visiting on and off for the last 18 months or so. Speaking of which, they used to run a grocery-takeaway deli (The Salusbury Foodstore) which was where I used to pick up saffron, truffle (with oil!) and cheese, but it has since been rechristened as Giorgio’s, an Italian deli and cafe, which is fantastic, and which we (and the more esteemed half) spend some of our lazy afternoons in… or when we are just too lazy to cook. The chicken escalopes are awesome, and we love the home-style tiramisu, the pizzas won’t win awards, but we’re not pizza otaku and we like them. They are of the stone baked variety with toppings that include potatoes, truffle oil, egg and artichokes.
As for The Salusbury, the food is actually not half bad, in fact, it’s pretty good. It’s consistent. Gimmick free recipes are hardly ahead of the the curve, but I think it shines because it’s hearty, wholesome cooking. The trademark dishes include pappardelle with duck ragu (sadly the chicken liver option which was fantastic seems to have been taken off) and their tagliatelle with lobster (sometimes served with the lobster shell, for dramatic effect) are the crowd favourites. The fish dishes such as cod with clams, mussels and cherry tomatoes are great too. Filling and warming. On to my meal now:
Octopus salad with chick pea and red onion, £7.40
A simple rocket, tomato and onion salad, tossed with chickpeas, and sitting on a bed of grainy mashed chickpeas – like hummus, but without the gorgeous oiliness. The rubbery, fatty tentacles are chopped into tubular pieces, spongy, and the natural saltiness goes surprisingly well with chickpeas. It’s a good start.
Brasato e Umidi …. braised and slow cooked oxtail with tomato and celery £11.20
Hot damn, what gargantuan servings. It might be a little too wintry a dish for this time of year, but it didn’t stop me from completely devouring it and then proceeding to strip every bit of tendon and meat from the tailbone. The meat was slow cooked to a melty, flossy, coagulating mess that fell off the bone as it it had been greased with hot butter. Just gorgeous. The gelatinous tendon bits were the best part (of any oxtail dish really) giving it a brawny, full (fatty) flavour that was matched amazingly well with the full bodied gravy. You want to mop up the sauce with baguette, lots of it. This dish epitomises this kitchen’s fill-her-up style of cooking, which is great if you are feeling particularly ravenous.
Fritto, Veal Chop Milanese £14.20
Gotta have veal chop if it’s on the menu, and it is actually a chop on the bone, not an escalope. The meat was hammered to a pulp. Expectedly the meat was tender, the tenderness accompanied by a burst of juice. The crust came crumbly fried with a buttery fragrance, an eggy flouriness about it (if that makes sense), very appetising. A squidge of lemon really gave the butter flavour chop a nice zingy contrast. I’ve had this twice and both times I was really impressed with it, simple pleasures, but oh so very good. The better half struggled to finish this, since it was also amazingly large portioned, so we dog-bagged it (I had it for lunch the following day).
It is probably one of the priciest locations to eat and to drink in the NW6 vicinity, food plus a pint of Hoegaarden was a whopping £45. Beer alone set me back £4.70… that’s shocking considering we are far, far away from Central London. Well zone 2 anyway. Such is it’s degree of gentrification. Still the prices are perhaps not prohibitively high enough, as it continues to draw in the zestful soul of area, the busy atmosphere works both ways I suppose, but that’s why they have a dedicated dining room for the discerning customer who might opt for a more ‘serene’ setting. It’s all relative however.
The steak and chips (a slither of rib eye with a biting horseradish sauce £16) is also very good, and if you can overlook its frenzied reputation (and resulting spotty service) , you might find something delectable on the menu. Otherwise, take a breather at Giorgio’s next door, and tuck away a couple of their ace cannolis.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
A RESPONSE TO HER CRITICS – FINALLY, SOMEONE HAS SAID IT
Year after year, the Queen continues to reinvent her role as Sovereign in face of these ever-so-quickly changing times. She seems to have a sense for change which years ago would have been a debatable topic. These days we hear insensitive critics complain that the monarchy is not worth its price tag. Then again we hear that the Sovereign costs each British taxpayer .62 pence a year. Even at that, these modern moaners say they cannot identify with the tapestry of royal life. There is always this feeling that these critics dislike everything and want to sweep away all the cultural traditions which others love and cherish. The fact is that most Brits and visitors from around the world sense that the Queen makes an inestimable contribution. A visitor to one of our flats humorously said to me: I AM GOING TO LONDON TO SEE THE QUEEN. I asked her why she wasn’t going to visit the Prime Minister. I smiled over her response: WHO IS THAT? For some reason, England’s monarch seems to have intrigued us all and has for centuries. I am often in London during the STATE OPENING OF PARLIAMENT, and I watch people’s faces as the royal coaches pass by. It is an amazing sight. Several years ago, Minnie Spooner–a humble lady from the East End–was asked on TV why she comes to the Palace to join the crowds on the Queen’s Birthday. In her heavy East End accent, she put her hand to her throat and said: I DON’T KNOW; IT IS JUST SOMETHING IN HERE. There was a real sense of national pride in Mrs. Spooner’s teary voice.
This early morning, the following article came across my computer. We are reading it here before it shows up in the London papers. But, I think this article responds accurately to the Queen’s critics who think she should sell her tiaras and move into a semi-detached house. As I read this article, I said to myself: THIS IS EXACTLY RIGHT, AND WE ALL SENSED AND KNEW IT ALL ALONG.
Next I hear one of these rag-tag complainers, I am going to tell them that they can have their MADONNA, and I will take Liz.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 27, 2010
THE NATIONAL GALLERY
During the past year, I have posted comments about events taking place in the NATIONAL GALLERY on Trafalgar Square. Often, we rush about to see landmarks like the TOWER OF LONDON and CHANGING THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE and then hope to squeeze in a few moments in the Gallery. I realize most visitors to London have time restraints, so I thought I would encourage your visit by posting a few of the magnificent paintings in the Gallery with a “map” showing where they would be found. So, if you have only a few hours, or even a couple of hours, study the location map first so you do have the opportunity the see some of the paintings you would like to visit. Hopefully, this will help your planning.
I will first include a “map” and then a listing of paintings showing what is where. The colors will not correspond, but the numbers of the galleries will match.
Then, I will put some of my favorite paintings on the post. The Velasquez NUDE is one of my favorite five paintings in the Gallery, and I visit it first off along with the Vermeer, Holbein, and the Stubbs.
This experience at the NATIONAL GALLERY is a major experience, and I encourage my readers to spend as much time in the Gallery as possible.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 26, 2010
NOW THIS IS GOING TO BE INTERESTING! Here we go again!
Fergie and her “fatal flaws” continue to bemuse the public in her on-going life of drama and bad judgment. I have no comment except to say that we can watch this soap opera right here at home. I am sure the Queen is muttering to herself: WE ARE NOT AMUSED. Well, I wish Sarah well,and I hope she is able to distance herself from the Palace and the difficult role the Royal Family has to carry out on behalf of the Nation. Goodness me!
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
A SPECTACULAR TWO-BEDROOM FLAT IN KNIGHTSBRIDGE – VERY LOVELY
I hope you might consider this flat for your next visit to London. It is very beautiful.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 25, 2010
THE MADONNA OF THE ROCKS – THE LOUVRE AND THE NATIONAL GALLERY
Traveling with a “theme” is fun. I am doing a tour called IN SEARCH OF VICTORIA AND ALBERT in August which will take us from Balmoral to Coburg–that’s a serious theme trip. But also, a visit to the NATIONAL GALLERY to see the newly cleaned MADONNA OF THE ROCKS and to the LOUVRE IN PARIS to see the earlier version of the MADONNA OF THE ROCKS is another theme trip. The Louvre version was painted earlier, mostly by DaVinci. The National Gallery version was painted entirely by the master. I wrote a blog on the newly restored MADONNA OF THE ROCKS in the National Gallery, but wouldn’t it be a fun trip to then go to Paris and see the earlier version? Wow! That’s traveling with a purpose. That’s exactly what I am going to do. Come join.
THE LOUVRE MADONNA
THE NATIONAL GALLERY VERSION
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT SUMMER TOURS –New Information
I have had several calls in the office about visiting the HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT this summer when the House of Lords and the House of Commons are not sitting. I am putting this information on the blog as the summer visits are taking place now.
This information is directly off their website and should give you all the information you require. Great.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
NOVEMBER 30 2010 JEWELS, JEWELS, JEWELS
I am always on the look-out for exciting experiences for my readers. The Sotheby’s sale of the jewelry once belonging to the Duke and Duchess of Windsor will be one of the most amazing auctions–November 30, 2010, London. Goodness, you don’t have to buy, but to be in the sale room watching this event will be an occasion you will never forget. I am posting some of the photographs that are being put out to the public to advertise this sale. These pieces of jewelry were auctioned several years ago after the death of the Duchess of Windsor, and now they are again surfacing. The atmosphere in the sale room will be electrifying. If you have ever wanted to attend an auction of this quality, this is the event. I predict that eventually these magnificent jewels will end up in a museum somewhere in the world. The pieces are so unusual and of such quality–they have such broad public interest. Also, the magnificent PRINCE OF WALES DIAMOND BROACH was bought by Elizabeth Taylor; let’s wait and see where that fabulous piece ends up. This is exciting stuff.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 23, 2010
THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH — A CHARMING PHOTO AT THE QUEEN’S GARDEN PARTY
I am in the midst of writing a rather long post on the NATIONAL GALLERY in London when this charming photograph of the DUKE OF EDINBURGH came across my screen. The photograph was taken at the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace today. I thought my readers would enjoy seeing it. So, while I am working on the NATIONAL GALLERY blog, you can smile at this lovely photograph of the Queen’s consort. Through thick and thin, the Queen continues to stick with her man. Really nice.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
VISIT SOUTH LONDON – THE PRINCE OF WALES TO THE RESCUE
I have written several posts about the new vitality in South London. The art galleries, restaurants, and clubs are thriving. Well, so is the church ALL SAINTS CHURCH, PECKHAM. The church started in 1867 when Peckham was a village on the edge of Camberwell and was a haven outside the intense bustle of Victorian London. Within a few years the church had grown from about 20 people to over 600 adults in the congregation, and there was even a children’s service for 800 children each Sunday afternoon.
The church grew rapidly in the early 20th century, but like many inner-city church, declined after World War II. By the mid-1990′s the church congregation had fallen in number to a small handful of members. The church was no longer viable and plans were made to sell off the land for housing.
By 1996 a last ditch effort was made to sae the church. A new reverand was appointed with the attitude that GOD HAD A PLAN THAT ALL SAINTS COULD BE FULL AGAIN ON SUNDAYS. Since 2003, the church reports that people attending the church have continued to show strong growth.
ALL SAINTS HAS TWO SERVICES each Sunday, a morning service at 10:30 am and an evening service at 7pm. There is also a midweek service on Tuesdays at 11:00am. The services reflect the New Wine/SoulSurvivor style of worship. In 2005 the church released its first live worship CD YOUR FAVOR.
The Prince of Wales has taken a great interest in South London. He has moved the offices for his charities to Camberwell and has been involved in projects to save the historic fabric of the area. He and the Duchess of Cornwall spent a day recently visiting ALL SAINTS PECKHAM CHURCH and the BRIXTON MARKET.
I am going to attend church at ALL SAINTS in August. I want to hear the spirited and spiritual music from the congregation and to visit another old church saved from demolition.
I realize that many of my readers stay on the north side of the Thames–probably because limited time allows visits only to the more famous church buildings like Westminster Abbey, Brompton Oratorio, and St. Paul’s. But for those who have a bit more time, start exploring South London. Great things are happening there. I have written about BOROUGH MARKET and the GLOBE, etc., but I think ALL SAINTS PECKHAM would be a wonderful experience. You would mingle with local Londoners and would be hearing accents which are so charming.
Visiting a charming service at ALL SAINTS in Peckham with local supports–wow! What a wonderful plan. I expect that the vitality of the South Bank which attracts the Prince of Wales will rub off on us. What a great thing to watch an area come back to life. Consider it for your visits.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 22, 2010
THE TIMUR RUBY – Queen Victoria’s Great Jewel
The famous TIMUR RUBY is one of the most beautiful jewels in the Queen’s private collection. This famous ruby is actually a spinel. It weighs over 352 carats and until 1851 was widely regarded as the largest known ruby in the world. Presented to Queen Victoria by the East India Company in October 1851 and remaining in the royal collection ever since, this stone has a long and colorful history.
The stone is engraved as follows: THIS THE RUBY FROM AMONG THE 25,000 GENUINE JEWELS OF THE KING OF KINGS, THE SULTAN SAHIB QURAN (TIMUR), WHICH IN THE YEAR 1153 FROM THE JEWELS OF HINDUSTAN REACHED THIS PLACE.
Like many of the famous gems of the Orient, the TIMUR RUBY traveled to England amongst a collection of Indian Jewelry taken from the Lahore Treasury in 1849 when Britain annexed the Punjab to its Empire. Queen Victoria was well pleased by her gift–she particularly admired what she termed the “wonderful rubies” and on 23 October 1851 wrote in her journal: They are cabochons, uncut, unset, but pierced. The one is the largest in the world, therefore even more remarkable than the Koh-i-Nor (105 carats).
In Aprl 1853 Garrards set four of these so-called “rubies” in a new diamond-encrusted gold and enamel necklace of Oriental design with four diamond pendants also from Lahore. At the center of the necklace came te huge rose-pink stone of 352 carates that the Queen Victoria had especially noted. Two months later, Garrards adjusted the necklace to allow this stone to be detched for use as a brooch and to alternate with the recently recut Koh-i-nor Diamond.
This fabulous and unusual stone has remained in the Royal Collection. Even though Queen Victofria decided to alternate this broach with the Koh-i-nor, the broach was never worn. This is partly because the Queen did not wear or rarely wore colored stones after the Prince Consort’s death. The current Queen has never worn it either; however, there are rumors that she is considering having a dress made which would highlight this necklace. As of now, THE STONE IS A NO SHOW.
It will be very interesting to see if this jewel is part of the SUMMER EXHIBITION at the Queen’s Gallery. It is so unusual and interesting; it would have great public interest. Let’s keep our fingers crossed! And our toes! If the Queen continues not to wear the stone, I know a few ladies who would gladly volunteer. Right?
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
THOMAS SULLY’S PORTRAIT OF THE YOUNG QUEEN VICTORIA – The Summer Exhibition
One of the great paintings of Queen Victoria in the early years is Thomas Sullly’s stunning portrait of the Queen. Thomas Sully was born in England; but at an early age, his family moved to the United States. When Queen Victoria was preparing for the coronation, an American club having loyalty to Britain asked Thomas Sully to go to London to paint the Queen. When he arrived in London where he had studied earlier, there were delays after delays. Finally, Sully started his portrait. When all the coronation portraits were completed, it was determined by Buckingham Palace that Sully’s portrait was the finest of all the portraits, capturing the spirit and personality of the young Queen.
This year, the Queen’s Gallery has its exhibition about VICTORIA AND ALBERT. The Queen’s version of the Sully portrait is spectacular. There is a second portrait in the Wallace Collection. What is so so interesting are the artist’s sketches and his color/paint study.
This is one of the most beautiful royal portraits in the Royal Collection. You will see variations in several locations in London this summer. So, when you are doing your visits this summer, keep an eyes open for this portrait. It will be highlighted in various locations.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 20, 2010
TEMPLE CHURCH
I read the DA VINCI CODE and enjoyed the fun read. But what really interested me was the visit to TEMPLE CHURCH in London. I had visited the Church before, but I was really interested in a more educated visit after I had read the popular fantasy novel with historic references. I decided it was time to encourage my readers to visit TEMPLE CHURCH. This article was so informative and well written that I decided to post the article in its entirety. This is the real stuff! I hope you will visit TEMPLE CHURCH; it is really wonderful.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 19, 2010
Mr. Jerry Hancock – A MAJOR WESTERN AMERICAN ARTIST
MR. JERRY HANCOCK is a major Western American artist. It is not London, but I wanted to share my enthusiasm for this artist. I will do a blog later in the month about his many national awards and some of his finest paintings. He is preparing to do a major show, and I will photograph some of the images to share with my readers. I have been buying his work for seveal years, and my children all have their names on the backs of the images. This is an outstanding artist who has been my friend for many, many years. I am posting three images of his paintings that I have just bought for our mountain home high in the Rocky Mountains. Before they are moved to the mountains, I wanted to share them with you. Within ten days, I will post some fabulous paintingss for your pleasure–and purchase, if you wish. The pair of plough horses is a large painting– 3 feet by 3 feet. It is really spectacular and will be beautiful over our mountain fireplace, above Deer Valley, Utah.
Jerry Hancock’s phone number is 801.731.1613 He will enjoy hearing from you.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
LONDON BRIDGE – Historic Reconstructions – MODELS
One of my readers alerted me to the Museum in Docklands where I found these fabulous models of the 15th century LONDON BRIDGE. Today’s LONDON BRIDGE is just a modern road over the Thames; but the 15th century bridge was the center of London life: shops, houses, water wheels. It was the busiest location in the city. The stone buildings on the bridge lasted and were sturdy, but the wood structures burned, one after another– century after century. TRAITORS were beheaded, and the families were humiliated by having a family member’s head put up on a stick. Sir Thomas Moore is a good example. THIS THOMAS MOORE–the author of this blog– IS DOING ALL IN HIS POWER TO KEEP HIS HEAD ON HIS SHOULDERS as a spike on LONDON BRIDGE is not a happy thought.
Moving along, the reconstructions are fantastic. I like being in Venice where the Ponto Vecchio still has its shops and merchants–now thousands and millions of tourists buying gold jewelry. Really, when you consider the crowded conditions of the city, the bridge community really makes sense.
Enjoy the photos. I loved them.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 17, 2010
A COMFORTABLE FLAT ON CALLOW STREET – South Kensington Tube Station
THE LONDON CONNECTION has just put on its books this charming little flat on CALLOW STREET. 2 people will be comfortable here–a charming setting with wonderful atmosphere–and it is reasonable! IT IS AVAILABLE FROM 16 AUGUST, 2010. FOR YOUR SPECIFIC DATES, check out our website: www.londonconnection.com
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 16, 2010
GROSVENOR PRINTS – Covent Garden
JOCELYN at GROSVENOR PRINTS has been a dear friend of mine for many years. I have gathered some outstanding engravings from GROSVENOR PRINTS over the years. These magnificent engravings are the center of my English collection. Many years ago now, I bought the fabuous equestrian portrait of KING GEORGE III riding with the Dragoons and his sons. It is massive and once hung over my desk until I came to the office one day to find it GONE. Where did it go? IT WAS STOLEN. Who stole it? MY SON THOMAS, and it now hangs over HIS desk in his home office. I was slightly irritated, but my anger was assuaged when I realized that a young man liked it enough to steal it from his father’s office. And so it goes.
But, I really encourage my readers to visit GROSVENOR PRINTS. These engravings are amazing documents of historical events and usually are engraved copies of some of the great historical paintings which hang in museums and in royal residences.
While you are in Covent Garden, take a detour and experience this wonderful shop. I love going to this shop and often get in real trouble. My children hope to inherit my collection; so I enjoy them now, and they can have them later. Really nice.
GROSVENOR PRINTS, 19 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H Telephone: 020.7836.1979
FABULOUS
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
MAPS AND CHARTS – A SERIOUS EXHIBITION AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY
There are over four million maps in various forms at the BRITISH LIBRARY. Magnificent maps highlight the British Library’s unique collection of large-scale maps, many of which have never been exhibited before demonstrate why maps are about far more than geography.
The exibition include large-scale, impressive maps from the 1400s to the present day, including the largest atlas in the world, THE KLENCKE ATLAS of 1660. It suggests the settings in which they might originally have been seen–from the palace to the schoolroom and the home .
THE KLENCKE ATLAS was given to King Charles II at the time of the STUART RESTORATION in 1660. Such magnificent maps and atlases were symbols of status and wealth. They were important items in private and royal residences.
Prior to 1800, these maps would have hung beside paintings and sculpture on the walls of palaces and grand private homes. No expense was spared with vast tapestries, large wooden globes, and painting in gold leaf commissions.
This massive collection has been kept in layers and layers of shelves in the British Library. These maps are magnfiicent to the eye, and I encourage all my readers to visit this EXHIBITION which is open until September.
THIS IS MAGNIFICENT AND MUST NOT BE MISSED. Very beautiful.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
A WONDERFUL YOUTUBE – WORTH THE VIEWING
I ran into this movie on YOUTUBE, and I am eager to share it with my readers. Enjoy.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 15, 2010
CARNAVAL DEL PUEBLO 1 August, 2010
CARNAVAL DEL PUEBLO, held in London since 1999, is the largest Latin American out-door festival in Europe, attracting people from diverse backgrounds in a day of Latin music, dance, and fun.
Carnaval del Pueblo is the event of the year for all Latinos and lovers of their culture. Londoners of all communities come together and share this intense cultural experience.
The festival brings a Latin experience to London with a carnival procession, Latin American artists in four different areas in Burgess Park.
The float procession leaves Elephant Road at 12pm traveling through Walworth Road, Albany Road and reaching Burgess Park around 3pm, where the party continues until 10pm.
If you want to join the festival at the park where attractions start at 10am, you should go to Burgess Park in Camberwell, Chumleigh Street, london SE5. It has easy access from ELEPHANT AND CASTLE UNDERGROUND and British Rail Stations plus bus numbers 36,12,171,68, 68a, 45, 176, 63, 172.
THIS WILL BE A COLORFUL EVENT AND A FUN EXPERIENCE. Put your valuables in your front pocket. Hm! I can go to the British Museum to study Egyptian mummies, OR I CAN SPEND THE AFTERNOON WATCHING HALF-DRESSED BEAUTIES DANCING DOWN THE STREET–ALL THEIR NATIVE DANCES. Hm. I wonder which one will win out! AND, GREAT FOOD!
I will see at CARNAVAL DEL PUEBO on 1 August starting at 10:00 am
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
THE GRAND DUCHESS VLADIMIR’S TIARA
THE GRAND DUCHESS VLADIMIR’S TIARA is one of the Queen’s most interesting pieces of jewelry. The TIARA itself is one of the most exquisite examples of late 19th century Russian craftsmanship. The Grand Duchess was the grandest of the Grand Duchesses of the Imperial Court. She despised the Empress and set up an alternate court in the Vladimir Palace which dazzled the eyes of western visitors. She loved her pearls and her magnificent emeralds.
In 1918, the Grand Duchess and her family fled St. Petersburg and took refuge in the Caucus Mountains. Finally, in 1920, the family fled the country in an Italian ship to live in Venice. By the end of 1920, the Grand Duchess was living in Paris where she died later in the year.
The vast VLADIMIR jewel collection was hidden in the Vladimir Palace in St. Petersburg, undetected by the Bolsheviks. A member of the British Secret Intelligent Service who had befriended the Grand Duchess entered the Vladimir Palace and rescued the jewels which he smuggled out of Russia in a large diplomatic bag. The jewels were delivered to the Vladimir family in Paris where the Grand Duchess divided them between her children.
This prized tiara was given to Grand Duchess’s daughter the Princess Nicolas of Greece from whom Queen Mary acquired the jewel for her personal collection. It was given to Queen Elizabeth by her grandmother and now is one of the Queen’s favorite pieces of jewelry–with a very a long and eventful history.
When the jewel came into the hands of Queen Mary, who loved emeralds, she used the remainder of the CAMBRIDGE EMERALDS to alternate with the large baroque pearls which were original to the tiara. Queen Mary enhanced many of the jewels in her collection, so today her contribution to the Queen’s personal collection is remarkable.
I am posting pictures of the Grand Duchess wearing the Tiara, Queen Mary with the tiara, and several images of the Queen with her favorite jewel–with both pearls and emeralds.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
SUMMER EXHIBITION – BUCKINGHAM PALACE
As you are aware, I place a lot of importance on the SUMMER EXHIBITION AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE. Fabulous items from the ROYAL COLLECTION see the light of day which otherwise would remain hidden in the vaults of Buckingham Palace or would be brought out on the rare occasion for a ceremonial event.
This summer’s exhibition starts on 27 July, and there is great anticipation. THE VICTORIA AND ALBERT EXHIBITION in the QUEEN’S GALLERY is drawing great public interest. THE CRIMSON VELVET ROBE worn by the Queen at the State Opening of Parliament will be the centerpiece of the display in the Ballroom of the Palace. The ROBE weighs 15 pounds and was made for the Coronation in 1953. The train is 18 feet in length and has an ermine cape. (The quantities of ERMINE owned by the Queen is a fascinating story and will be the topic of a blog one fine day.)
The OPENING OF BUCKINGHAM PALACE to the public was planned to raise money for the restoration of Windsor Castle after the great fire. The tax payer was not asked to contribute. Now the funds go toward the preservation of the Royal Collection.
What a fantastic way for one aspect of the Royal Collection to come to the rescue of another area where preservation is needed. Fantastic planning.
We are all eager to visit the Palace starting 27 July.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 14, 2010
ELIZABETH I – a 16th century portrait painted during the lifetime of the Queen
This image of ELIZABETH I painted during the 16th century was emailed to me. I have never seen it before. It hangs in Westminster School at Westminster Abbey where it has been since it was painted. I thought my readers would like to see this marvelous imagine of the Virgin Queen. Wonderful. Enjoy!
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
WASABI for SUSHI – near the EMBANKMENT
On several occasions, I have found myself in central London–hungry for SUSHI. I was happy to find WASABI’S ad on the internet and want to share it with my readers. Their food is always fresh and tasty. I grab a snack here at least once a week. It holds me over….
I just asked my computer person to post the photo of WASHABI on this post, and he called me SIR THOMAS BLOG-A-LOT. Maybe so, but I don’t want my readers to be without good food.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
HENRY VIII AND CATHERINE OF ARAGON – St. George’s Chapel
I assume that all my readers and visitors to our flats in London (www.londonconnection.com) visit St. George’s Chapel when they are at Windsor. I want to point out a few details which I think will make your visit more meaningful.
Henry VIII inherited his brother’s widow, Catherine of Aragon. The young King Henry at first was eager to make his new wife and consort happy. He decided to share his enthusiasm for ST. GEORGE’S CHAPEL with her.
I am posting an early image of Henry VIII during an ORDER OF THE GARTER ceremony. It is really interesting. Queen Catherine also shared his enthusiasm, and I am posting an image of one of the Queen’s bound and tooled books. I find these two items very interesting.
But, the important addition to ST. GEORGE’S CHAPEL is the ORIEL WINDOW which HENRY VIII added to the chapel. It is a private Oriel Window overlooking the altar and is called the CATHERINE OF ARAGON WINDOW–the theme of carving is the TUDOR ROSE.
This window became familiar to the British Public when Queen Victoria used the window to view the wedding of her son Edward (later Edward VII) and Princess Alexandra of Denmark (later Queen Victoria).
Prince Albert had died two years before the wedding, and Queen Victoria felt that her presence at a happy family wedding was unsuitable. So, in deep mourning and dressed in complete black, she attended the wedding, but secluded in Queen Catherine’s ORIEL WINDOW.
I AM ATTACHING A SMALL PHOTO of the inside of the room behind the window. I have never seen photos of this space before. Really interesting.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
QUEEN VICTORIA – HER LIFE IN PHOTOGRAPHS
QUEEN VICTORIA’S LIFE HAS INTERESTED THE PUBLIC FOR GENERATIONS. One of my readers forwarded this photo series and thought my readers would like to follow it. I enjoyed the overall history and hope you all enjoy it also.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 12, 2010
OUR FLAT ON PARLIAMENT SQUARE – FABULOUS FLAT FOR 2
A successful trip to London has a lot to do with location, location. Well, our new flat certainly fills the bill. Rarely does a visitor to London have the opportunity to walk out his front door to find Westminster Abbey and St. Margaret’s Church just across the street–right next door. Just past the Abbey are the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Hall. St. James’s Park and Buckingham Palace are to the left , and Whitehall leading to Trafalgar Square is just up the street. Westminster Bridge and London Eye are just in front. How is that for location? Amazing. The apartment is in a fantastic period building, positioned in the heart of Westminster. It is a sleek, bright, and very comfortable one bedroom accommodation on the second floor– with lift. It has just been entirely refurbished with the most up-to-date equipment. The lounge is bright, comfortable with TV, sofas, and chairs. The sofa in the lounge is a pull-out and can accommodate a third guest if needed. The kitchen is all new with washer/dryer, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, hob/oven, and microwave. The dining area has a glass dining table and four chairs and is open to the kitchen. The bedroom has a queen size bed and good storage. The bathroom has a shower stall, wash hand basin, and loo–all excellent quality. Westminster Tube Station is five minutes away, and St. James’s Park Station is just around the corner. This is an ideal flat for 2 persons. When considering the budget, the location, and the quality, this is a superb accommodation. HIGH-SPEED INTERNET with wireless router (802.llb/g) has been installed for those traveling with computers.
Click here for a virtual tour so you can see the entire flat on a “movie.” This is really a wonderful location from which to London.
Thank you,
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
80 HEADLESS SKELETONS -ROMAN GLADIATORS-EXCAVATED
Dozens of headless skeletons excavated from a northern English building site appear to be the remains of Roman gladiators, one of whom had bites from a lion, tiger, bear, or other large animal, archaeologists report.
Experts said new forensic evidence suggests the bones belong to the professional fighters who were often killed while entertaining spectators.
Most of the skeletons were male and appeared stronger and taller than the average Roman with signs of arm-muscle stress that suggest weapons training that began in the men’s teenage years.
The team investigating the remains said that one of the best clues was carnivore tooth marks found on the hip and shoulder of one of the skeletons.
One of the scientists said: ”The presence of bite marks is one of the strongest pieces of evidence suggesting an arena connection. It would seem highly unlikely that this individual was attacked by a tiger as he was walking home. The bites were believed to have caused the person’s death.”
YORK–about 200 miles north of London–was one of the largest cities in Roman Britain, and experts believe bands of gladiators touring the Roman Empire occasionally traveled here to put on fighting shows.
Wysocki said gladiators were often beheaded as an act of mercy after suffering horrific injuries during their fights All of the skeletons were buried with pottery, animals or other offerings, suggesting they were respected people, not criminals.
We know that gladiators toured the empire, but very little is known about them in Britain. They would be performing for the local governor or a rich person, but it was probably on rare occasions.
The York Archaeological Trust said that the burial ground was not the first of its kind to be uncovered but it was among the best preserved.
The only other comparable gladiator cemetery is in Ephesus, Turkey. The human remains found there were fragmented and not as complete as those unearthed in York.
Archaeologists stumbled upon the York skeletons in 2003 when they were assessing an area due for housing development. The site was part of a large cemetery on the outskirts of the Roman town.
Wonderful news and information.
Thanks,
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
LE COLOMBIER RESTAURANT – Chelsea Square
A couple of years ago, a London friend of ours invited us to dinner to meet a friend of hers: TARQUIN OLIVIER, son of the famous Lawrence Olivier. We met at LE COLOMBIER RESTAURANT in Chelsea. The group was exciting, but the servings were fabulous. Besides RULES RESTAURANT in Covent Garden, LE COLOMBIER is my favorite restaurant. Every visit has been successful. I LOVE THEIR LAMB and GRILLED SHRIMP starters.
Goodness, this makes me hungry.
LE COLOMBIER Contact for reservations: 020 7351 1155
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
“RUDE BRITANNIA” IS AT THE TATE BRITAIN UNTIL 5 SEPTEMBER
British political cartoons are often much more vicious than their North American counterparts. In one of the milder instances, the GUARDIAN’S Steve Bell invariably depicted Prime Minster John Major wearing his underpants over is trousers. Another editorial cartoonist, Martin Rowson, has shown post-Iraq war Blair drenched in blood.
In the 1980′s, satirical puppet show “Spitting Image” depicted Thatcher as a butcher with a bloody cleaver. Cartoonist Gerald Scarfe turned her into a prehistoric predator: the Torydactyl.
Today, Scarfe acknowledges affection for the Iron Lady as a subject, despite their political disagreements.
“Mrs. Thatcher was great because she was a strong woman and she produced strong images,” he said. ”The cartoon comes from the character. You can’t make weak people strong.”
Many of the works on display mock, but some also appeal for change. Hogarth’s 1751 GIN LANE and George Cruikshank’s 1862 THE WORSHIP OF BACCHUS are both savage depictions of the damage done by excessive alcohol that helped change social attitudes.
In the 1930′s, David Low’s cartoons of Hitler helped turn British feeling against appeasement. Posters used by protesters against the invasion of Iraq unsuccessfully exhorted Blair to MAKE TEA, NOT WAR.
Scarfe, whose work appears in the SUNDAY TIMES NEWSPAPER said at the best of times comic art can produce a kind of rallying point around which people can gather and think THAT IS WHAT I WAS FEELING BUT COULDN’T PUT INTO WORDS.
Scarfe said; I HOPE IT HELPS SUM UP PEOPLE’S FEELINGS, AND HOPEFULLY EVENTUALLY IT CAN BECOME A MOVEMENT.
Scarfe says he is realistic about the limits of satire’s power. He says many politicians secretly enjoy being caricatured, and often ask if they can buy cartoons for themselves.
AND AFTR CENTURIES OF SATIRE, BRITAIN OFFICIALLY REMAINS A MONARCHY WITH ITS UPPER CLASS FIRMLY INTACT. LAUGHTER HAS NOT LED TO REVOLUTION.
“PERHAPS WE HAVEN’T HAD A REVOLUTION BECAUSE OF THE SAFETY VALVE PROVIDED BY THAT SATIRICAL ART.
So, it can be argued that SATIRE is a conservative force.
I find this concept thought-provoking. I AM GOING TO THIS EXHIBITION AT THE TATE BRITAIN.
Thanks,
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
“RUDE BRITANNIA” IS AT THE TATE BRITAIN UNTIL 5 SEPTEMBER
British political cartoons are often much more vicious than their North American counterparts. In one of the milder instances, the GUARDIAN’S Steve Bell invariably depicted Prime Minster John Major wearing his underpants over is trousers. Another editorial cartoonist, Martin Rowson, has shown post-Iraq war Blair drenched in blood.
In the 1980′s, satirical puppet show “Spitting Image” depicted Thatcher as a butcher with a bloody cleaver. Cartoonist Gerald Scarfe turned her into a prehistoric predator: the Torydactyl.
Today, Scarfe acknowledges affection for the Iron Lady as a subject, despite their political disagreements.
“Mrs. Thatcher was great because she was a strong woman and she produced strong images,” he said. ”The cartoon comes from the character. You can’t make weak people strong.”
Many of the works on display mock, but some also appeal for change. Hogarth’s 1751 GIN LANE and George Cruikshank’s 1862 THE WORSHIP OF BACCHUS are both savage depictions of the damage done by excessive alcohol that helped change social attitudes.
In the 1930′s, David Low’s cartoons of Hitler helped turn British feeling against appeasement. Posters used by protesters against the invasion of Iraq unsuccessfully exhorted Blair to MAKE TEA, NOT WAR.
Scarfe, whose work appears in the SUNDAY TIMES NEWSPAPER said at the best of times comic art can produce a kind of rallying point around which people can gather and think THAT IS WHAT I WAS FEELING BUT COULDN’T PUT INTO WORDS.
Scarfe said; I HOPE IT HELPS SUM UP PEOPLE’S FEELINGS, AND HOPEFULLY EVENTUALLY IT CAN BECOME A MOVEMENT.
Scarfe says he is realistic about the limits of satire’s power. He says many politicians secretly enjoy being caricatured, and often ask if they can buy cartoons for themselves.
AND AFTR CENTURIES OF SATIRE, BRITAIN OFFICIALLY REMANS A MONARCHY WIT ITS UPPER CLASS FIRMLY INTACT. LAUGHTER HAS NOT LED TO REVOLUTION.
“PERHAPS WE HAVEN’T HAD A REVOLUTION BECAUSE OF THE SAFETY VALVE PROVIDED BY THAT SATIRICAL ART.
So, it can be argued that SATIRE is a conservative force.
I find this concept thought-provoking. I AM GOING TO THIS EXHIBITION AT THE TATE BRITAIN.
Thanks,
Thomas Moore 801.7919918
http://www.londonconnection.com
July 11, 2010
THE ROYAL VAULTS — WINDSOR CASTLE – Amazing Image
I wrote a blog recently about the ROYAL VAULTS at Windsor. I also read where Princess Beatrice–Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter– died during World War II, and her remains were placed in the Royal Vaults. It was in the midst of World War II, and nothing else could be arranged. I keep running into these words ROYAL VAULTS. I read That Queen Mary wanted to inspect the Royal Vaults to be sure they were in good repair. To her chagrin, they were in complete disarray (to such a degree that she refused to have her remains placed in the vaults and were put into a marble memorial above ground in St. George’s Chapel). In response to my writing about the ROYAL VAULTS, one of my readers forwarded this image of what the Royal Vaults actually look like. At the far end, you will see the large central coffin. Those are the remains of George III with his consort Queen Charlotte to one side and a second family member on the other. George IV was also placed in the vaults as was Princess Charlotte who died in childbirth. This is certainly no great image, but at least we get an idea. I know that somewhere on the Internet there is a drawing of the Vault showing who is entombed there and the location of their remains. If anyone finds it, please email it to me. Thanks so much.
Goodness, how times have changed.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
http://www.londonconnection.com
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
July 10, 2010
POET’S CORNER – WESTMINSTER ABBEY
A Visit to Westminster Abbey is part of every visit to London. I visit the Abbey twice a year, either on my own or with guests. This magnificent abbey is like a book that never ends. Our family members were in the Abbey four or five time for Christmas music events, sitting in different locations every time. When I saw the name of THOMAS HARDY under my chair, the most wonderful feeling came over me. This is a very hallowed location in the Abbey, and I wanted to share it with you: POET’S CORNER.
I am posting several pages here of the poets or literary people who are buried in POET’S CORNER in the Abbey. I also want to add several photo images of this amazing building. Hopefully, this information will help prepare my visitors. There is nothing worse than reading the guidebooks when you get home and wished you had known more information before you went. Hopefully, this information will be helpful.
Thanks,
Thomas Moore
July 9, 2010
ST. MARTIN IN-THE-FIELDS July and August Concerts
Thomas Moore
http://www.londonconnection.com
WHOOPI GOLDBERG IN THE WEST END IN AUGUST
I don’t know why, but I do know that I am going to the WEST END in August to see Whoopi. Come join me.
Tom
http://www.londonconnection.com